Your driveway is more than just a practical place to park—it’s one of the first things people notice about your home. But over time, even the best driveways can begin to show signs of wear and tear.
At Bespoke Driveways and Patios, we’ve helped countless homeowners across Plymouth and the surrounding areas restore their driveways to top condition. Here are the five most common driveway issues we see—and how to fix them before they turn into expensive headaches.
1. Cracks and Surface Fractures
The Problem:
Cracks are one of the most common driveway issues, particularly in older surfaces like concrete or tarmac. They can appear due to weather changes, heavy loads, or poor installation.
Why It Matters:
If left untreated, cracks can worsen over time, letting water in and causing even more damage—especially during winter.
The Fix:
Small cracks can often be filled with a professional sealant. For larger or recurring cracks, we recommend resurfacing or replacing the damaged section to ensure long-term durability.
2. Potholes and Depressions
The Problem:
Potholes form when water seeps into cracks and erodes the base underneath the surface. Over time, this weakens the structure and leads to dips and holes.
Why It Matters:
Potholes don’t just look unsightly—they can damage tyres, pose tripping hazards, and indicate deeper structural problems.
The Fix:
Our team can cut out the damaged area, rebuild the sub-base, and resurface it to match the existing driveway. For frequent potholes, a full driveway assessment may be needed to address foundational issues.
3. Weed Growth Between Paving Blocks
The Problem:
Weeds popping up between block paving or slabs are both frustrating and unattractive. They often grow due to poor joint filling or lack of maintenance.
Why It Matters:
Weeds not only spoil the appearance of your driveway—they can also disturb the paving and cause uneven surfaces over time.
The Fix:
We recommend removing the weeds, re-sanding the joints with kiln-dried sand, and applying a high-quality sealant to prevent regrowth. Regular brushing also helps keep them at bay.
4. Poor Drainage and Standing Water
The Problem:
If your driveway collects water after rain, it could be due to poor design or clogged drainage. This leads to surface damage and can even affect your home’s foundation.
Why It Matters:
Excess water accelerates surface wear, encourages moss growth, and makes the driveway slippery.
The Fix:
We can assess the slope and drainage channels, and if needed, install new soakaways or a permeable surface such as resin-bound paving, which naturally allows water to drain through.
5. Fading and Discolouration
The Problem:
Sun, rain, and pollutants can cause your driveway to fade or stain over time. Tarmac may lose its deep black colour, while block paving can look patchy or tired.
Why It Matters:
A faded driveway drags down your property’s kerb appeal—even if it’s structurally sound.
The Fix:
We offer surface cleaning, resealing, and recolouring options depending on the material. For block paving, a professional clean followed by sealing can completely refresh its appearance.
When to Call the Experts
Some driveway problems are easy DIY fixes—but many require a professional touch to ensure a lasting solution. At Bespoke Driveways and Patios, we offer free inspections and quotes across Plymouth and Devon, helping homeowners get the most out of their outdoor spaces.
Ready to Repair or Upgrade Your Driveway?
Don’t wait for minor issues to become major expenses. Whether it’s resurfacing, drainage improvement, or a full driveway makeover, our expert team is here to help.
Visit us today or give us a call to book your free consultation.